Town Square

2 plant questions

1. Can I grow pussy willows in Palo Alto? Google searching is inconclusive; some sites say no, and some say yes. Has anyone successfully grown it? How about in a pot? Or does it only grow in cold-weather areas?

2. Where can I buy live bamboo stems? I used to be able to find them at Ikea, but when I recently went, they didn't have any.

Thanks!

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Posted by gardener
a resident of Old Palo Alto
on Oct 17, 2012 at 11:40 am

First off, thanks for a refreshing post. Considering all the other posts in Town Square regarding the local elections, I found this brightened my day. That said, I find that you can grow just about anything in this area BUT that doesn't mean it will be easy. IF you can find pussy willows (probably will have to mail order), you still have to somewhat replicate the native growing conditions which are not so easy if you have a black thumb. I'm a pretty good gardener who grew up where pussy willows are native shrubs and I wouldn't make the effort... but that's me.

As for bamboo stems, it depends on what variety you're looking for... try Home Depot or any local nursery (Summerwinds, Yamagami's, etc). If you want to get something special for a particular application, google bamboo bay area. There are a lot of suppliers... I think even Cactus Jungle in Berkeley has a good selection. Good luck!

Posted by black thumb
a resident of Professorville
on Oct 17, 2012 at 11:33 pm

Thanks, gardener, for the compliment and answer! If it's tough to grow I won't even try, because I really have trouble with gardening. I'll have to find some cut pussy willow and dry it, I always loved it as a kid.

Bamboo stems are a nice bit of greenery that lasts a few years, even for me. I'll try Summerwinds.